What is a surge protector?

A surge protector is primarily designed to protect electrical devices from voltage spikes that can occur due to various reasons, such as lightning strikes, power outages, or fluctuations in the power supply. When an electrical surge occurs, the surge protector absorbs the excess voltage and diverts it away from connected devices, preventing potential damage. This function is crucial for maintaining the longevity of sensitive electronics, which can be easily damaged by high voltage levels.

The design of surge protectors involves components such as metal oxide varistors (MOVs) or gas discharge tubes, which activate to shunt the excess voltage away from the protected equipment, ensuring that a stable current is maintained. The effectiveness of a surge protector can be measured by its joule rating, which indicates how much energy it can absorb before it fails.

Understanding this function helps clarify how essential surge protectors are in protecting valuable electronics, especially in areas prone to electrical storms or unstable power supplies.